Working in education is an extremely rewarding profession, we know that it comes hand in hand with a lot of demanding work that requires your utmost dedication and commitment. Amidst the challenges, it is crucial to remember to prioritise your own mental health and wellbeing.

In this blog post, in support of #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek we will share five valuable tips to help you priortise your mental wellbeing and thrive in your role.

Self-care

As a Teacher or Teaching Assistant, we know you often prioritise the needs of your students, and perhaps sometimes forget about your own. Our main advice here is to try and leave work at work, and make sure you take time to do the things you love when you leave school. Self-care can mean anything you want it to, it could be that you just want to sit on the sofa in silence with a chocolate bar, if that makes you feel good, then do it! Other ideas could be going out for a walk, doing an activity you enjoy or simply just calling a friend for a chat. Remember, by taking care of yourself, you can better support your students.

Set Boundaries

We know this is likely the most difficult one, but it is most definitely the most important. Establishing boundaries is essential to prevent burnout. Clearly define your working hours and allocate time for breaks and personal life. Avoid bringing work home whenever possible. Setting boundaries allows you to maintain a healthy work-life balance and ensure time for rest and taking care of your mental wellbeing.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help

If ever you are feeling low, don't hesitate to reach out to colleagues, the Staffroom team, or your family and friend support networks when you need someone to talk to. Sharing experiences and concerns with others who understand the teaching profession can provide a valuable perspective and alleviate stress because chances are, someone else is feeling exactly the same as you!

Prioritise Stress Management

Teaching can be demanding, and stress can be common. Prioritise stress management techniques that work for you. These may include deep breathing exercises, journaling, or engaging in creative outlets. Discover healthy coping mechanisms to help manage stress effectively and maintain a positive mindset.

Develop Healthy Work Habits

Considering we spend the majority of our life working, it's important to enjoy work. Establishing healthy work habits can significantly impact your mental health. Set realistic goals, and don’t expect too much from yourself. You can do this by chopping up tasks into manageable chunks, and taking your time. If ever you have any concerns about your work load, we are always here to talk to.

So there we have it, 5 tips specifically for you to support your mental wellbeing at work.

If you’re struggling with your mental health, here is a list of local services that may be useful in South Wales: I need support for my mental health. Where should I start?

But remember, we are always here to talk to if ever you need us.